The BBC reports that with this appointment, Zhang will be expected to be attending meetings at the Emir’s palace and may wish to take part in the traditional horse riding festival, known as a durbar, along with his entourage during Eid festivals.

The Kano Emirate said the appointment followed “an increase in the number of Chinese businessmen who engage in different forms of businesses without a unified leadership structure”.

One member of the Kano Emirate told the BBC that “the emirate needs a liaison officer to solve conflicts that emanate from business transactions between Chinese and Kano traders”.